Dog Bite Lawyers in Encino, CA

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A dog bite can cause deep puncture wounds, nerve damage, infections, scarring, and lasting emotional trauma, especially for children. If you or your child was bitten or attacked by a dog in Encino, Sherman Oaks, Tarzana, Van Nuys, or anywhere in the San Fernando Valley, Lipel Law can help you get compensation from the dog's owner and their insurance company. Attorney Katherine Lipel has more than 25 years of experience, and our office is on Ventura Boulevard in Encino. Consultations are free, and you pay no attorney's fees unless we win.

California has one of the strongest dog bite laws in the country. Under California Civil Code section 3342, a dog's owner is responsible for injuries caused by a bite if the victim was in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the owner's own property. In most cases, it does not matter whether the dog had ever bitten anyone before or whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous. There is no "one free bite" rule in California.

Some exceptions apply, for example to trespassers and to on-duty police or military dogs in certain situations.

Not every dog injury is a bite. If a dog knocked you down, chased you into traffic, or caused you to fall, the strict liability statute may not apply, but you may still have a claim based on the owner's negligence, such as letting the dog run off leash or failing to control a dog they knew was aggressive. In some cases, a landlord who knew about a dangerous dog on the property may also be responsible.

In many cases, a dog owner's homeowners or renters insurance policy covers dog bite injuries. That means your claim is usually paid by an insurance company, not out of your neighbor's pocket. We handle communication with the insurance company so you can focus on healing.

1. Get medical care right away. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection, and a doctor can address rabies concerns.
2. Get the dog owner's name, address, phone number, and insurance information.
3. Report the bite to Los Angeles Animal Services, which serves Encino and the rest of the City of Los Angeles.
4. Take photos of your injuries as they heal, the location of the attack, and the dog if it is safe to do so.
5. Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the attack.
6. Talk to our lawyers before giving a recorded statement to the owner's insurance company.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in California?
In most cases, two years from the date of the bite (California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1). If a government agency is involved, a six-month claim deadline may apply.

Can I sue if the dog had never bitten anyone before?
Usually, yes. Under California's strict liability rule for dog bites, the owner can be responsible even if the dog had no history of aggression.

My child was bitten by a neighbor's dog. What should I do?
Get your child medical care first, then document the injuries and the owner's information. Children are among the most frequent victims of dog bites, and their injuries, including scarring, can affect them for years. We can explain your family's options at a free consultation.

What compensation can I recover after a dog bite?
Depending on your case, you may be able to recover medical bills, future medical care such as scar treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

How much does it cost to hire your dog bite lawyers?
Nothing up front. You pay no attorney's fees unless we win, and if we don't win, you owe nothing, including case costs.

Lipel Law handles dog bite cases throughout Encino, the San Fernando Valley, and California. See our Encino personal injury lawyers page, learn about slip and fall cases, or call (818) 904-0100.